CN110073126A - Steering tubes for dampers with electromechanical valves - Google Patents

Abstract

A shock absorber includes a pressure tube defining a working chamber. A reserve tube is concentric with and radially outward from the pressure tube. The delivery tube is positioned radially outwardly from the pressure tube. A reservoir chamber is formed between the reservoir tube and the draft tube. A piston is attached to the piston rod and is slidably disposed within the pressure tube. A rod guide is attached to the pressure tube and supports the piston rod. An electromechanical valve is positioned within the rod guide. A plurality of longitudinal passageways are defined by the flow conduit and at least one of the pressure tube and the reserve tube for conveying fluid between the electromechanical valve and the reserve chamber.

Description

Steering tubes for dampers with electromechanical valves

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to US Utility Application No. 15/380,468, filed December 15, 2016. The entire disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference.

technical field

The present disclosure generally relates to hydraulic dampers or shock absorbers used in suspension systems, such as those used by motor vehicles. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a draft tube for a damper including an electromechanical valve.

Background technique

This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

Typically, conventional shock absorbers develop a damping force characteristic based on the velocity of a piston rod translating relative to the body of the shock absorber. The shock absorber includes a valve through which oil flows during movement of the piston rod. A pressure differential is created within the shock absorber based on the configuration and position of the valve. The operating pressure provides a resistance or damping force between the piston rod and the body of the shock absorber to provide the desired damping force characteristics of the vehicle suspension.

Electronically adjustable shock absorbers are also available. These shock absorbers also produce a damping force characteristic, but the damping force is adjustable over the damping force range. Electronically adjustable shock absorbers can thus provide several damping force characteristic curves for the same piston rod speed.

Both conventional and electronically adjustable shock absorbers may exhibit lower than desired damping force magnitudes if there is insufficient oil fluid volume in the shock reservoir reservoir cavity or if the fluid is aerated. Many shock absorbers are constructed as twin tube shock absorbers where the reservoir contains liquid oil fluid and pressurized gas in the same chamber. The oil level in the reservoir varies during operation of the shock, but the shock is constructed to maintain a minimum oil level at all times. In some shock absorbers, the physical position of the valve relative to the fluid level in the reservoir can cause the gas and fluid to mix, thereby aerating the liquid oil. The resulting hysteresis of the damping force occurs due to the compressibility of the gas within the liquid. It is at least one object of the present disclosure to mitigate inflation of fluid within a shock absorber to minimize hysteresis in providing a target damping force.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This section provides a general overview of the disclosure, rather than a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

A shock absorber includes a pressure tube forming a working chamber. A reserve tube is concentric with and radially outward from the pressure tube. A draft tube is positioned radially outward from the pressure tube. A reservoir lumen is formed between the reservoir tube and the draft tube. A piston is attached to the piston rod and is slidably disposed within the pressure tube. A rod guide is attached to the pressure tube and supports the piston rod. An electromechanical valve is positioned within the stem guide. The draft tube and the pressure tube form a fluid passage between the electromechanical valve and the reservoir chamber.

The present disclosure also describes a shock absorber that includes a piston assembly attached to a piston rod and slidably disposed within a pressure tube. The piston assembly divides the working chamber into an upper working chamber and a lower working chamber. The piston assembly includes a first valve assembly that controls fluid flow through a first fluid passage connecting the upper working chamber with the lower working chamber. A reservoir tube is arranged around this pressure tube. A draft tube is positioned radially outward from the pressure tube and at least partially defines a draft tube channel between the pressure tube and the draft tube. A reservoir lumen is positioned between the draft tube and the reservoir tube. A second valve is positioned within the pressure tube for controlling fluid flow between one of the upper and lower working chambers and the reservoir chamber. A rod guide supports the piston rod and is attached to one end of the pressure tube. A second fluid channel extends from one of the upper working chamber and the lower working chamber to the draft tube channel. An electromechanical valve is positioned within the rod guide for controlling fluid flow through the second passage. The draft tube channel fluidly connects the electromechanical valve and the reservoir.

This disclosure also describes a shock absorber wherein the plurality of longitudinal passages are defined by the geometry of the draft tube and at least one of the pressure tube and the reserve tube. At least one longitudinal passage is provided in fluid communication with the electromechanical valve and the reservoir chamber to deliver fluid from the electromechanical valve to the reservoir chamber with minimal foaming.

Other applicability will be apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.

Description of drawings

The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a representation of a car with a shock absorber incorporating a valve design in accordance with the present disclosure;

2 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the twin-tube shock absorber from FIG. 1 incorporating a valve design according to the present disclosure;

Figure 3 is an enlarged side view, partly in section, of a piston assembly from the shock absorber shown in Figure 2;

4 is an enlarged side view, partly in section, of a base valve assembly from the shock absorber shown in FIG. 2;

5 is an enlarged side view, partly in section, of an electromechanical valve assembly from the shock absorber shown in FIG. 2;

Figure 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional perspective view of the electromechanical valve assembly shown in Figures 2 and 5;

7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the twin-tube shock absorber showing fluid pressure and flow during the compression stroke;

8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the twin-tube shock absorber showing fluid pressure and flow during the rebound stroke;

9 is a partial cross-sectional side view of another twin-tube shock absorber constructed in accordance with the present disclosure;

Fig. 10 is a perspective view of the guide tube of the double-tube shock absorber shown in Fig. 9;

Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the double-tube shock absorber shown in Fig. 9 taken along section line 11-11;

12 is a partial cross-sectional side view of another twin-tube shock absorber constructed in accordance with the present disclosure;

Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the guide tube of the double-tube shock absorber shown in Fig. 12;

Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the twin-tube shock absorber shown in Figure 12 taken along section line 14-14;

15 is a partial cross-sectional side view of another twin-tube shock absorber constructed in accordance with the present disclosure;

Fig. 16 is a perspective view of the guide tube of the double-tube shock absorber shown in Fig. 15;

Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the twin-tube shock absorber shown in Figure 15 taken along section line 17-17;

18 is a partial cross-sectional side view of another twin-tube shock absorber constructed in accordance with the present disclosure;

Fig. 19 is a perspective view of the guide tube of the double-tube shock absorber shown in Fig. 18;

Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of the twin-tube shock absorber shown in Figure 18 taken along section line 20-20;

21 is a partial cross-sectional side view of another twin-tube shock absorber constructed in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure 22 is a perspective view of the guide tube of the twin-tube shock absorber shown in Figure 21; and

23 is a cross-sectional view of the twin-tube shock absorber shown in FIG. 21 taken along section line 23-23.

Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

Detailed ways

Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.

The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the disclosure, application, or uses. A vehicle is shown in FIG. 1 incorporating a suspension system having shock absorbers each incorporating a valve assembly according to the invention and generally designated by the reference numeral 10 . The vehicle 10 includes a rear suspension 12 , a front suspension 14 and a body 16 .

The rear suspension 12 has a laterally extending rear axle assembly (not shown) adapted to operatively support a pair of rear wheels 18 . The rear axle is attached to the body 16 by a pair of shock absorbers 20 and a pair of springs 22 . Similarly, the front suspension 14 includes a transversely extending front axle assembly (not shown) for operably supporting a pair of front wheels 24 . The front axle assembly is attached to the body 16 by a pair of shock absorbers 26 and a pair of springs 28 .

Shock absorbers 20 and 26 serve to dampen relative motion of the unsprung portions of the vehicle 10 (ie, the front suspension 14 and the rear suspension 12 ) relative to the sprung portions (ie, the body 16 ). While vehicle 10 is depicted as a passenger vehicle having front and rear axle assemblies, shock absorbers 20 and 26 may be used with other types of vehicles or for other types of applications, including, but not limited to, in combination with non- Vehicles with independent front suspension and/or non-independent rear suspension, vehicles incorporating independent front suspension and/or independent rear suspension, or other suspension systems known in the art. Additionally, the term "shock absorber" as used herein is intended to mean a damper in general and will thus include McPherson struts and other damper designs known in the art.

Referring now to FIG. 2 , the shock absorber 20 is shown in greater detail. Although only shock absorber 20 is shown in FIG. 2 , it should be understood that shock absorber 26 also includes the valve assembly design described below for shock absorber 20 . Shock absorber 26 differs from shock absorber 20 only in the manner in which it is adapted to connect to the sprung and unsprung masses of vehicle 10 . The shock absorber 20 includes a pressure tube 30 , a piston assembly 32 , a piston rod 34 , a reserve tube 36 , a base valve assembly 38 and a flow guide tube 40 .

The pressure tube 30 defines a working chamber 42 . The piston assembly 32 is slidably disposed within the pressure tube 30 and divides the working chamber 42 into an upper working chamber 44 and a lower working chamber 46 . A seal 48 is provided between the piston assembly 32 and the pressure tube 30 to allow the piston assembly 32 to slide relative to the pressure tube 30 without undue friction and to seal the upper working chamber 44 from the lower working chamber 46 . Piston rod 34 is attached to piston assembly 32 and extends through upper working chamber 44 and rod guide assembly 50 . A pressure tube adapter 51 is provided between the rod guide assembly 50 and the upper end of the pressure tube 30 such that the pressure tube adapter 51 closes the upper end of the pressure tube 30 . In one non-limiting example, pressure tube adapter 51 may be press fit into the upper end of pressure tube 30 during assembly. A bumper stop 53 located adjacent to the pressure tube adapter 51 extends annularly around the piston rod 34 . The bumper stop 53 prevents the piston assembly 32 from contacting the pressure tube adapter 51 on the rebound stroke. The end of the piston rod 34 opposite the piston assembly 32 is adapted to be secured to a sprung mass of the vehicle 10 . A valve arrangement within the piston assembly 32 controls the movement of fluid between the upper working chamber 44 and the lower working chamber 46 during movement of the piston assembly 32 within the pressure tube 30 . Since the piston rod 34 only extends through the upper working chamber 44 and not through the lower working chamber 46 , movement of the piston assembly 32 with respect to the pressure tube 30 causes the amount of fluid displaced in the upper working chamber 44 to be the same as that displaced in the lower working chamber 46 . difference in fluid volume. The difference in the amount of fluid displaced is referred to as “stem volume” and it flows through the base valve assembly 38 .

The reserve tube 36 surrounds the pressure tube 30 to define a fluid reservoir cavity 52 between the pressure tube 30 and the reserve tube 36 . The bottom end of the reserve tube 36 is closed by a base cup 54 adapted to connect to the unsprung mass of the vehicle 10 . The upper end of the reserve tube 36 is attached to a rod guide assembly 50 . Base valve assembly 38 is disposed between lower working chamber 46 and reservoir chamber 52 for controlling the flow of fluid between chambers 46 and 52 . When the shock absorber 20 is extended in length, additional fluid volume is required in the lower working chamber 46 due to the "rod volume" concept. Accordingly, fluid will flow from the reservoir chamber 52 to the lower working chamber 46 through the base valve assembly 38 as described in more detail below. When the shock absorber 20 is compressed in length, excess fluid must be removed from the lower working chamber 46 due to the "rod volume" concept. Accordingly, fluid will flow from the lower working chamber 46 to the reservoir chamber 52 through the base valve assembly 38 as described in more detail below.

The draft tube 40 extends concentrically between the pressure tube 30 and the supply tube 36 . The upper end of the draft tube 40 is attached to a rod guide assembly 50 . Attachment mechanism 55 may include a hook, snap fit, press fit, or another suitable arrangement. Additionally, the upper end of the draft tube 40 includes a radially outwardly extending collar 57 . The supply tube 36 has a transition 59 in which the diameter of the supply tube 36 decreases. Collar 57 of draft tube 40 contacts transition portion 59 of reserve tube 36 to lock draft tube 40 in place and prevent draft tube 40 from moving longitudinally relative to stock tube 36 and rod guide assembly 50 . Alternatively, draft tube 40 may be press fit into reserve tube 36 or welded to reserve tube 36 . The lower distal end of draft tube 40 is shown unsupported and spaced from pressure tube 30 , reserve tube 36 , and base valve assembly 38 . Alternatively, the support structure may be attached to the lower distal end of the catheter. The extent to which the lower distal end of the draft tube 40 extends into the reservoir cavity 52 is such as to ensure that the end remains in continuous fluid contact with the liquid positioned in the reservoir cavity 52 . More specifically, there is a draft tube channel 56 between the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30 and the inner cylindrical surface of the draft tube 40 . This annular space is always completely filled with fluid when the shock absorber 20 is in operation.

A portion of reservoir cavity 52 positioned between the outer cylindrical surface of draft tube 40 and the inner cylindrical surface of reserve tube 36 contains a liquid fluid, such as oil, in a lower region including at least the distal lower end of draft tube 40 . . Pressurized gas is positioned within the upper portion of the reservoir cavity 52 . An O-ring 58 disposed along a collar 57 of the draft tube 40 seals the upper end of the draft tube 40 to the reserve tube 36 . Other structures that may be used to provide a sealed attachment, including press fits or welds, are contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure.

Referring now to FIG. 3 , the piston assembly 32 includes a piston body 60 , a compression valve assembly 62 and a rebound valve assembly 64 . The compression valve assembly 62 assembles against a shoulder 66 on the piston rod 34 . Piston body 60 is assembled against compression valve assembly 62 and rebound valve assembly 64 is assembled against piston body 60 . A nut 68 secures these components to the piston rod 34 .

The piston body 60 defines a plurality of compression passages 70 and a plurality of rebound passages 72 . Seal 48 includes a plurality of ribs 74 that cooperate with a plurality of annular grooves 76 to retain seal 48 during sliding movement of piston assembly 32 .

Compression valve assembly 62 includes retainer 78 , valve disc 80 and spring 82 . The retainer 78 bears against the shoulder 66 on one end and against the piston body 60 on the other end. The valve disc 80 bears against the piston body 60 and closes the compression passage 70 while keeping the rebound passage 72 open. A spring 82 is disposed between the retainer 78 and the valve disc 80 to bias the valve disc 80 against the piston body 60 . During the compression stroke, the fluid in the lower working chamber 46 is pressurized causing fluid pressure to react against the valve disc 80 . When fluid pressure against valve disc 80 overcomes the biasing load of spring 82 , valve disc 80 disengages from piston body 60 , thereby opening compression passage 70 and allowing fluid to flow from lower working chamber 46 to upper working chamber 44 . Typically, spring 82 exerts only a light load on valve disc 80 , and compression valve assembly 62 acts as a check valve between chambers 46 and 44 . The damping characteristics of shock absorber 20 during the compression stroke are controlled in part by base valve assembly 38 which accommodates fluid flow from lower working chamber 46 to reservoir chamber 52 due to the "rod volume" concept. During the rebound stroke, the compression channel 70 is closed by the valve disc 80 .

Rebound valve assembly 64 is referred to as a passive valve assembly and includes an isolator 84 , a plurality of valve discs 86 , a retainer 88 and a spring 90 . A spacer 84 is threadedly received on the piston rod 34 and disposed between the piston body 60 and the nut 68 . Spacer 84 retains piston body 60 and compression valve assembly 62 while allowing tightening of nut 68 but without compression valve disc 80 or compression valve discs 86 . The retainer 78 , piston body 60 and spacer 84 provide a continuous physical connection between the shoulder 66 and the nut 68 , thereby facilitating the tightening and securing of the nut 68 to the spacer 84 , and thus to the piston rod 34 . Valve disc 86 is slidably received on spacer 84 and bears against piston body 60 to close rebound passage 72 while keeping compression passage 70 open. A retainer 88 is also slidably received on the spacer 84 and it abuts against the valve disc 86 . Spring 90 is assembled over spacer 84 and is disposed between retainer 88 and nut 68 which is threadedly received on spacer 84 . A spring 90 biases the retainer 88 against the valve disc 86 and the valve disc 86 against the piston body 60 . When fluid pressure is applied to the valve discs 86 , they will resiliently deflect at the peripheral edges, thereby opening the rebound valve assembly 64 . A washer is positioned between the nut 68 and the spring 90 to control the preload to the spring 90 and thus the blow off pressure, as described below. Accordingly, calibration for the blow-off characteristics of the rebound valve assembly 64 is separate from calibration for the compression valve assembly 62 .

During the rebound stroke, the fluid in the upper working chamber 44 is pressurized causing fluid pressure to react against the valve disc 86 . Prior to deflection of the valve disc 86 , the discharge fluid flow flows through a discharge passage defined between the valve disc 86 and the piston body 60 . When fluid pressure acting against valve disc 86 overcomes the bending load of valve disc 86 , valve disc 86 resiliently deflects to open rebound passage 72 , allowing fluid to flow from upper working chamber 44 to lower working chamber 46 . The strength of the valve disc 86 and the size of the rebound channel will determine the damping characteristics of the shock absorber 20 in rebound. When the fluid pressure within the upper working chamber 44 reaches a predetermined level, the fluid pressure will overcome the biasing load of the spring 90 , thereby causing axial movement of the retainer 88 and the plurality of valve discs 86 . Axial movement of the retainer 88 and valve disc 86 fully opens the rebound passage 72, thereby allowing the passage of a substantial amount of damping fluid, thereby creating the fluid flow necessary to prevent damage to the shock absorber 20 and/or the vehicle 10. Pressure blowing.

Referring to FIG. 4 , the base valve assembly 38 includes a valve body 92 , a compression valve assembly 94 and a rebound valve assembly 96 . Compression valve assembly 94 and rebound valve assembly 96 are attached to valve body 92 using bolts 98 and nuts 100 . Tightening of nut 100 biases compression valve assembly 94 toward valve body 92 . The valve body 92 defines a plurality of compression passages 102 and a plurality of rebound passages 104 .

Compression valve assembly 94 is referred to as a passive valve assembly that includes a plurality of valve discs 106 biased against valve body 92 by bolts 98 and nuts 100 . During the compression stroke, fluid in the lower working chamber 46 is pressurized and fluid pressure within the compression passage 102 acts against the valve disc 106 . Prior to deflection of the valve disc 106 , the discharge fluid flow will flow through the discharge passage defined between the valve disc 106 and the valve body 92 . Fluid pressure acting against the valve disc 106 will eventually open the compression valve assembly 94 by deflecting the valve disc 106 in a similar manner as described above for the rebound valve assembly 64 . The compression valve assembly 62 will allow fluid to flow from the lower working chamber 46 to the upper working chamber 44 and only the “rod volume” will flow through the compression valve assembly 94 . The damping characteristics of shock absorber 20 are determined in part by the design of compression valve assembly 94 of base valve assembly 38 .

Rebound valve assembly 96 includes valve disc 108 and valve spring 110 . The valve disc 108 abuts against the valve body 92 and closes the rebound channel 104 . A valve spring 110 is disposed between the nut 100 and the valve disc 80 to bias the valve disc 108 against the valve body 92 . During the rebound stroke, the fluid in the lower working chamber 46 is depressurized, causing the fluid pressure in the reservoir chamber 52 to react against the valve disc 108 . When fluid pressure against valve disc 108 overcomes the biasing load of valve spring 110 , valve disc 108 disengages from valve body 92 , thereby opening rebound passage 104 and allowing fluid to flow from reservoir chamber 52 to lower working chamber 46 . Typically, valve spring 110 exerts only a light load on valve disc 108 , and compression valve assembly 94 acts as a check valve between reservoir chamber 52 and lower working chamber 46 . The damping characteristics of the rebound stroke are controlled in part by rebound valve assembly 64 , as detailed above.

Referring now to FIGS. 5 and 6 , the rod guide assembly 50 is shown in greater detail. The rod guide assembly 50 includes a rod guide housing 120 , a seal assembly 122 and an electromechanical valve assembly 126 .

The rod guide housing 120 is assembled into the pressure tube 30 and into the reserve tube 36 . The rod guide housing 120 includes one or more recesses 121 formed in an outer surface of the rod guide housing 120 . The upper end of the reserve tube 36 is crimped or formed into a recess 121 in the rod guide housing 120 to lock the rod guide housing 120 in place and prevent the rod guide housing 120 from moving longitudinally relative to the reserve tube 36 . Seal assembly 122 is assembled to rod guide housing 120 . A cap 128 is attached to the end of the shock absorber 20 . A bushing 130 assembled into the rod guide housing 120 accommodates the sliding movement of the piston rod 34 while also providing a seal against the piston rod 34 . A fluid passage 132 extends through the rod guide housing 120 to allow fluid communication between the upper working chamber 44 and the electromechanical valve assembly 126, as discussed below.

The electromechanical valve assembly 126 is a two-position valve assembly having a different flow area in each of two positions. The electromechanical valve assembly 126 includes a valve housing 140 , a sleeve 142 , a spool valve 144 , a spring 146 and a coil assembly 148 . It should be appreciated that the valve housing 140 may be integral with the stem guide housing 120 . Valve housing 140 defines a valve inlet 150 in fluid communication with upper working chamber 44 via fluid passage 132 and a valve outlet 152 in fluid communication with draft tube channel 56 . At least part of the valve outlet 152 is defined by a chamfer 153 in the pressure tube adapter 51 . Fluid moves in a longitudinal direction away from the electromechanical valve assembly 126 . The chamfer 153 of the pressure tube adapter 51 changes the fluid flow exiting the electromechanical valve assembly 126 to a radial direction. The fluid flow then turns back to the longitudinal direction again as it flows through the flow guide channel 56 . This non-linear tortuous fluid flow path through the valve outlet 152 reduces foaming of fluid in the valve outlet 152 . It should be understood that the chamfer 153 of the pressure tube adapter 51 may be replaced by other structures. By way of example and not limitation, the chamfer 153 of the pressure tube adapter 51 may be replaced by a radially extending channel in the pressure tube adapter 51 . Although this and other embodiments described later include the spring 146 in the electromechanical valve assembly, it is within the scope of the present disclosure that electromechanical valve assemblies that do not include the spring 146 can be used. Electromechanical valve assemblies that do not include spring 146 move between their two positions by reversing the current flow or reversing the polarity of power supplied to the electromechanical valve assembly. It is also contemplated that other electromechanical valves may be implemented into the shock absorbers of the present disclosure. For example, suitable alternative valves may include side inlets and bottom outlets.

A sleeve 142 is disposed within the valve housing 140 . Sleeve 142 defines an annular inlet chamber 154 in communication with valve inlet 150 and a pair of annular outlet chambers 156 and 158 in communication with valve outlet 152 . It should be appreciated that alternative configurations having only one outlet are within the scope of the present disclosure. The outlets may be oriented axially rather than the depicted radial orientation.

Spool valve 144 is slidably received within sleeve 142 and travels axially within sleeve 142 between coil assembly 148 and a stop puck 160 disposed within sleeve 142 . Spring 146 biases spool valve 144 away from coil assembly 148 and toward stop puck 160 . A spacer 162 is disposed between the coil assembly 148 and the sleeve 142 to control the amount of axial movement of the spool valve 144 . The first O-ring seals the interface between the stop elastic disc 160 , the sleeve 142 and the valve housing 140 . The second O-ring seals the interface between the coil assembly 148 , the sleeve 142 and the rod guide housing 120 .

Spool valve 144 defines a first flange 164 which controls fluid flow between annular inlet chamber 154 and annular outlet chamber 156 and a second flange 166 which controls fluid flow between annular inlet chamber 154 and annular outlet chamber 156 . Fluid flow between the oral cavity 158 . Flanges 164 and 166 thus control fluid flow from upper working chamber 44 to reservoir chamber 52 . The number of flanges depends on the configuration of the outlet. One or more flanges can be used.

A coil assembly 148 is disposed within the sleeve 142 to control axial movement of the spool valve 144 . Wiring connections for the coil assembly 148 may extend through the rod guide housing 120 , through the bushing 142 , through the valve housing 140 , and/or through the reserve tube 36 . When power is not provided to the coil assembly 148, the damping characteristic will be defined by the flow area of the electromechanical valve assembly 126, the piston assembly 32, and the base valve assembly 38 in its first position. Movement of the spool valve 144 is controlled by supplying power to the coil assembly 148 to move the electromechanical valve assembly to its second position. The electromechanical valve assembly 126 may be maintained in its second position by continuing to supply power to the coil assembly 148 or by providing means to retain the electromechanical valve assembly 126 in its second position and interrupting the supply of power to the coil assembly 148 . The means for retaining the electromechanical valve assembly 126 in its second position may include mechanical means, magnetic means, or other means known in the art. Once in its second position, movement to the first position can be accomplished by overcoming the retaining means by terminating power to the coil assembly 148 or by reversing the current flow or reversing the polarity of the power supplied to the coil assembly 148 . The flow through the electromechanical valve assembly 126 has discrete settings for flow control in both the first position and the second position.

Although the present disclosure is described using only one electromechanical valve assembly 126 , multiple electromechanical valve assemblies 126 can be used within the scope of the present disclosure. When using multiple electromechanical valve assemblies 126 , the total flow area through the multiple electromechanical valve assemblies 126 may be set to a particular amount of total flow area depending on the position of each individual electromechanical valve assembly 126 . This particular number of total flow areas may be defined as 2n flow areas, where n is the number of electromechanical valve assemblies 126 . For example, if there were four electromechanical valve assemblies 126, the number of total flow areas available would be twenty-four or sixteen flow areas.

Referring to FIG. 7 , the principle of operation of the shock absorber 20 during the compression stroke is depicted. The compression stroke includes advancing the piston rod 34 into the pressure tube 30 . As the piston rod 34 translates, it enters the pressure tube 30 and displaces a volume of oil equal to the rod volume. Main oil flow Q1 passes through a restriction in base valve assembly 38 . At the same time, the annular volume Q1' flows through the compression valve assembly 62 in an unrestricted manner to supplement the volume of oil in the upper working chamber 44. If one or more of the electromechanical valve assemblies 126 is open, then a secondary oil flow Q2 occurs parallel to the main oil flow Q1 . Secondary oil flow Q2 is constrained by the orifice area associated with each of the electromechanical valve assemblies 126 .

As a result of the flows Q1 and Q2 , a high pressure P1 occurs in the lower working chamber 46 of the pressure tube 30 between the base valve assembly 38 and the piston assembly 32 . Due to the pressure difference, a low pressure P2' occurs below the base valve assembly 38 (P1 > P2'). Due to the pressure difference, a low pressure P1' occurs above the piston assembly 32 (P1>P1'). Likewise, due to the pressure differential, a low pressure P2" occurs after the orifice restriction associated with each electromechanical valve assembly 126 (P1'>P2"). If there are any internal flow restrictions within the electromechanical valve assemblies 126, an additional pressure differential may be associated with each electromechanical valve assembly 126, in which case a low pressure P3 occurs after the electromechanical valve assembly 126 due to the pressure differential "(P2">P3").

The secondary flow Q2 continues within the nozzle channel 56 and recombines with the primary flow Q1 in the reservoir cavity 52 so that Qtotal = (Q1 + Q2). The pressure P3' at the bottom of the draft tube 40 and after the base valve assembly 38 will be equal to the gas inflation pressure Pg in the reservoir chamber 52 (i.e., P3">P3'=Pg).

Referring to Figure 8, during the rebound stroke (or extension stroke) of the shock absorber, the piston rod 34 exits the pressure tube 30 and displaces a volume of oil equal to the rod volume. The main oil flow Q1 passes through a restriction in the piston assembly 32 . At the same time, the rod volume Q1' flows unrestricted through the base valve assembly 38 to replenish the volume of oil in the lower portion of the pressure tube 30 between the piston assembly 32 and the base valve assembly 38. If one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are in an open state, then a secondary flow Q2 occurs parallel to the primary flow Q1 . Secondary oil flow Q2 is constrained by the orifice area associated with each of the electromechanical valve assemblies 126 .

As a result of the flows Q1 and Q2 , a high pressure P1 occurs in the working chamber of the pressure tube 30 between the piston assembly 32 and the rod guide assembly 50 . Due to the pressure difference, a low pressure P1' occurs below the piston assembly 32, (P1>P1') and (P2'>P1'). Likewise, due to the pressure differential, a low pressure P2 ″ occurs after the orifice restriction associated with each electromechanical valve assembly 126 ( P1 > P2 ″). There may be an additional pressure differential associated with each electromechanical valve assembly 126 if there are any internal flow restrictions within the electromechanical valve assembly 126 . In this case, a low pressure P3" occurs after the electromechanical valve assembly 126 due to the pressure difference (P2">P3").

The secondary flow Q2 continues within the nozzle channel 56 and recombines with the primary flow Q1 in the reservoir cavity 52 so that Qtotal = (Q1 + Q2). The pressure P3' at the bottom of the draft tube 40 and after the base valve assembly 38 will be equal to the gas inflation pressure Pg in the reservoir chamber 52 (i.e., P3">P3'=Pg).

Because the draft tube 40 is sealed at the upper end by an O-ring 58 or another sealing method, the pressure at the upper end of the draft tube 40 is always higher than the pressure at the lower end of the draft tube 40 within the reservoir chamber 52 (i.e. , P3 ">P3'=Pg). The oil level in the reservoir chamber 52 is limited to always remain higher than the lower end of the guide tube 40 during the total stroke of the shock absorber from expansion to compression. Therefore, the guide tube 40 mitigates the risk of hysteresis in inflation or damping forces, since P1 > P2" > P3" > P3' = Pg and Q always = (Q1 + Q2).

Although not shown here, another embodiment of the present disclosure includes a separate guide tube for each electromechanical valve assembly 126 . This embodiment will function in the same manner as previously described. The only difference is the packaging of the nozzle. The separate nozzle will have a defined diameter to allow for a sufficient oil flow rate Q2 (eg 8mm inner diameter). Each draft tube will be sealed at the outlet of each electromechanical valve assembly 126 using an elastomeric seal, press fit, welding, or other means known in the art. Similarly, the oil level within the reservoir chamber 52 will be defined to remain above the lower end of the draft tube throughout the shock's total stroke from expansion to compression. Therefore, the draft tube will mitigate the risk of hysteresis of the inflation or damping force, since P1 > P2" > P3" > P3' = Pg and Q always = (Q1 + Q2).

9 to 11 show an alternative embodiment in which the shock absorber 20 includes a guide tube 240 having a plurality of notches 242 extending radially from an inner surface 244 of the guide tube 240 toward the pressure tube 30 . Inland extension. The draft tube 240 extends annularly around the pressure line 30 and is arranged radially between the pressure line 30 and the supply line 36 . The plurality of notches 242 of the draft tube 240 contact the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30 and thus support the draft tube 240 concentrically on the pressure tube 30 . There is a draft tube channel 256 between the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30 and the inner surface 244 of the draft tube 240 .

A reservoir lumen 252 exists between the outer surface 246 of the draft tube 240 and the inner cylindrical surface of the reservoir tube 36 . A liquid fluid such as oil is contained in a lower region of the reservoir chamber 252 and a pressurized gas is contained in an upper portion of the reservoir chamber 252 .

The plurality of notches 242 are linearly aligned along longitudinal axes 248a, 248b, 248c, 248d that extend longitudinally along the draft tube 240 from an upper end 254 of the draft tube 240 to a lower end 255 of the draft tube 240 . The plurality of notches 242 thus define a plurality of longitudinal passages 258a, 258b, 258c, 258d in the nozzle channel 256 that extend longitudinally from the upper end 254 of the nozzle tube 240 to the lower end of the nozzle tube 240 255 and extends radially between the inner surface 244 of the draft tube 240 and the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30 . A plurality of longitudinal passages 258a, 258b, 258c, 258d run parallel to the longitudinal axes 248a, 248b, 248c, 248d and are circumferentially spaced therebetween. Accordingly, the plurality of longitudinal passages 258a , 258b , 258c , 258d are not interrupted by the plurality of indentations 242 . Optionally, the plurality of notches 242 are circumferentially spaced from each other and arranged in a number of transverse planes 260a, 260b, 260c, 260d, 260e transverse to the draft tube 240 and at the upper end 254 of the draft tube 240 Intersects the draft tube 240 at equally spaced longitudinal locations between the lower end 255 . In addition to supporting the draft tube 240 on the pressure tube 30, the plurality of notches 242 also facilitates fluid flow along the plurality of longitudinal passages 258a, 258b, 258c, 258d, which reduces the flow of fluid in the draft tube channel 256. Foam.

The valve outlet 152 of the electromechanical valve assembly 126 is disposed in fluid communication with the flow guide channel 256 and thus the plurality of longitudinal passages 258a, 258b, 258c, 258d. When the electromechanical valve assembly 126 is in the open state, fluid flows in the flow direction F1 through the plurality of longitudinal passages 258a, 258b, 258c, 258d of the flow guide channel 256 to the reservoir cavity 252, where the fluid then flows in the opposite direction. Flow along flow direction F2.

Fluid from the valve outlet 152 flows along a plurality of longitudinal passages 258a , 258b , 258c , 258d and to the reservoir chamber 252 . The nozzle tube 240 may optionally include a locking feature 264 to ensure proper positioning (i.e., alignment) of the nozzle tube 240 with the plurality of longitudinal passages 258a, 258b, 258c, 258d with one or more of the electromechanical valve assemblies 126. The valve outlets 152 are aligned circumferentially. By way of example and not limitation, locking feature 264 may be in the form of a notch in upper end 254 of draft tube 240 that engages a tab in rod guide assembly 50 . In the example shown, one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are located in the stem guide assembly 50 . However, other configurations are possible. For example, one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 may be mounted externally on reserve tube 36 . Even though the one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are external to the reservoir tube 36 , the internal passages of the one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are still disposed in fluid communication with the flow guide channel 256 and the reservoir cavity 252 . Accordingly, one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are operable to control the flow of fluid from flow diversion channel 256 to reservoir cavity 252 . In another embodiment, the plurality of notches 242 may extend radially outward from the outer surface 246 of the draft tube 240 toward the reserve tube 36 . Thus, in this embodiment, the flow guide channel 256 and the plurality of longitudinal passages 258 a , 258 b , 258 c , 258 d are positioned radially between the flow guide tube 240 and the reserve tube 36 . In this embodiment, delivery channels (ie, holes) extending through the draft tube 240 may be provided to deliver fluid from the valve outlet 152 to the plurality of longitudinal passages 258a, 258b, 258c, 258d.

In the example shown in FIGS. 9-11 , the plurality of notches 242 are dome-shaped; however, it should be appreciated that other shapes are possible. Additionally, it should be appreciated that the plurality of notches 242 may be arranged along any number of longitudinal axes and transverse planes. Accordingly, the number of longitudinal passages may vary from the four longitudinal passages 258a, 258b, 258c, 258d shown in the illustrated embodiment. It should also be appreciated that alternative embodiments are possible in which the plurality of notches 242 extend radially outward from the outer surface 246 of the draft tube 240 toward the inner cylindrical surface of the reserve tube 36 . According to this embodiment, the reservoir cavity 252 is positioned radially between the inner surface 244 of the draft tube 240 and the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30 . Also, the draft tube channel 256 and the longitudinal passages 258 a , 258 b , 258 c , 258 d are positioned radially between the outer surface 246 of the draft tube 240 and the inner cylindrical surface of the reserve tube 36 .

12 to 14 illustrate another alternative embodiment in which the shock absorber 20 includes a nozzle 340 having a plurality of corrugations 342a, 342b, 342c along the nozzle 340 from the nozzle Upper end 354 of draft tube 340 extends longitudinally to lower end 355 of draft tube 340 and extends radially outward from outer surface 346 of draft tube 340 toward reserve tube 36 . In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of corrugations 342 a , 342 b , 342 c are radially inwardly spaced from the inner cylindrical surface of the reserve tube 36 , but may alternatively contact the inner cylindrical surface of the reserve tube 36 . The draft tube 340 extends annularly around the pressure line 30 and is arranged radially between the pressure line 30 and the supply line 36 . The inner surface 344 of the draft tube 340 contacts the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30 and thus supports the draft tube 340 concentrically on the pressure tube 30 . The plurality of corrugations 342a, 342b, 342c collectively define a draft tube channel 356 in the form of three longitudinal passages 358a, 358b, 358c. Longitudinal passages 358a, 358b, 358c extend longitudinally along the draft tube 340 from the upper end 354 of the draft tube 340 to the lower end 355 of the draft tube 340 and between the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30 and the inner surface of the draft tube 340. 344 extending radially between the corrugations 342a, 342b, 342c.

A reservoir lumen 352 exists between the outer surface 346 of the draft tube 340 and the inner cylindrical surface of the reservoir tube 36 . A liquid fluid such as oil is contained in the lower region of the reservoir chamber 352 and pressurized gas is contained in the upper portion of the reservoir chamber 352 .

A plurality of corrugations 342a , 342b , 342c and thus longitudinal passages 358a , 358b , 358c run parallel to each other and are spaced circumferentially around draft tube 340 . Because the inner surface 344 of the draft tube 340 contacts the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30, the longitudinal passages 358a, 358b, 358c defined by the plurality of corrugations 342a, 342b, 342c are separated from each other (i.e., fluid flowing through the longitudinal passage 358a isolated from fluid flowing through longitudinal passage 358b until the fluid exits into reservoir chamber 352). However, in alternative embodiments the longitudinal passages 358a, 358b, 358c may be arranged in fluid communication with each other.

The valve outlet 152 of the electromechanical valve assembly 126 is disposed in fluid communication with each of the longitudinal passages 358a, 358b, 358c. When the electromechanical valve assembly 126 is in the open state, fluid flows along the flow direction F1 through the longitudinal passages 358a, 358b, 358c to the reservoir chamber 352, where the fluid then flows in the opposite direction along the flow direction F2. Alternatively, shock absorber 20 may include one electromechanical valve assembly for each of longitudinal passages 358a, 358b, 358c. Advantageously, the individual longitudinal passages 358a, 358b, 358c defined by the plurality of corrugations 342a, 342b, 342c deliver fluid from the valve outlet 152 of the electromechanical valve assembly 126 to the reservoir chamber 352 with minimal foaming (ie, bubbling). .

Fluid from the valve outlet 152 flows along a plurality of longitudinal passages 358a , 358b , 358c and to the reservoir chamber 352 . The nozzle tube 340 may optionally include a locking feature 364 to ensure proper positioning (i.e., alignment) of the nozzle tube 340 with the plurality of longitudinal passages 358a, 358b, 358c with the valve outlets of the one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126. 152 are aligned circumferentially. By way of example and not limitation, locking feature 364 may be in the form of a notch in upper end 354 of draft tube 340 that engages a tab in rod guide assembly 50 . In the example shown, one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are located in the stem guide assembly 50 . However, other configurations are possible. For example, one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 may be mounted externally on reserve tube 36 . Even though the one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are external to the reservoir tube 36 , the internal passages of the one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are still disposed in fluid communication with the flow guide channel 356 and the reservoir cavity 352 . Accordingly, one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are operable to control the flow of fluid from flow diversion channel 356 to reservoir chamber 352 . In another embodiment, the plurality of corrugations 342 a , 342 b , 342 c may extend radially inwardly from the inner surface 344 of the draft tube 340 toward the reserve tube 36 . Thus, in this embodiment, the flow guide channel 356 and the plurality of longitudinal passages 358 a , 358 b , 358 c are positioned radially between the flow guide tube 340 and the pressure tube 30 .

In the example shown in FIGS. 12-14, the plurality of corrugations 342a, 342b, 342c have a semi-circular cross-sectional shape; however, it should be appreciated that other shapes are possible. Additionally, it should be appreciated that the number of corrugations, and thus the number of longitudinal passages, may vary from the three corrugations 342a, 342b, 342c and three longitudinal passages 358a, 358b, 358c shown in the illustrated embodiment. In alternative embodiments, the plurality of corrugations 342a , 342b , 342c and thus the plurality of longitudinal passages 358a , 358b , 358c may also be configured to extend along only a portion of the longitudinal length of the draft tube 340 . It should also be appreciated that alternative embodiments are possible in which the plurality of corrugations 342 a , 342 b , 342 c extend radially inwardly from the inner surface 344 of the draft tube 340 towards the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30 . According to this embodiment, the reservoir cavity 352 is positioned radially between the inner surface 344 of the draft tube 340 and the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30 . Meanwhile, a draft tube channel 356 is formed by the longitudinal passages 358 a , 358 b , 358 c and is positioned radially between the outer surface 346 of the draft tube 340 and the inner cylindrical surface of the reserve tube 36 .

15-17 illustrate another alternative embodiment in which the shock absorber 20 includes a flow guide tube 440 having a plurality of inner channels 442a, 442b, 442c, 442d and a plurality of outer channels 443a , 443b, 443c, 443d. A plurality of inner channels 442 a , 442 b , 442 c , 442 d extend longitudinally along the inner surface 444 of the draft tube 440 from the upper end 454 of the draft tube 440 to the lower end 455 of the draft tube 440 . A plurality of outer channels 443 a , 443 b , 443 c , 443 d extend longitudinally along the outer surface 446 of the draft tube 440 from the upper end 454 of the draft tube 440 to the lower end 455 of the draft tube 440 . The draft duct 440 extends annularly around the pressure line 30 and is arranged radially between the pressure line 30 and the supply line 36 . The inner surface 444 of the draft tube 440 contacts the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30 and thus supports the draft tube 440 concentrically on the pressure tube 30 . The plurality of inner channels 442a, 442b, 442c, 442d collectively define a draft tube channel 456 in the form of four inner longitudinal passages 458a, 458b, 458c, 458d. The inner longitudinal passages 458a, 458b, 458c, 458d extend longitudinally along the draft tube 440 from the upper end 454 of the draft tube 440 to the lower end 455 of the draft tube 440, and between the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30 and the draft tube 440 extends radially between inner surfaces 444 in inner channels 442a, 442b, 442c, 442d.

The plurality of outer channels 443a, 443b, 443c, 443d define four outer longitudinal passages 459a, 459b, 459c, 459d. Outer longitudinal passages 459 a , 459 b , 459 c , 459 d extend longitudinally along draft tube 440 from upper end 454 of draft tube 440 to lower end 455 of draft tube 440 . The outer surface 446 of the draft tube 440 is spaced radially inwardly from the inner cylindrical surface of the reserve tube 36 . A reservoir cavity 452 exists between the outer surface 446 of the draft tube 440 and the inner cylindrical surface of the reservoir tube 36 . Outer longitudinal passages 459a, 459b, 459c, 459d open to and form part of reservoir cavity 452 . In other words, the plurality of outer channels 443a, 443b, 443c, 443d are open to the reservoir cavity 452, but are not in direct communication with (ie, closed to) the outlet valve 152 at the upper end 454 of the draft tube 440. A liquid fluid such as oil is contained in the lower region of the reservoir chamber 452 and pressurized gas is contained in the upper portion of the reservoir chamber 452 .

The plurality of inner channels 442a, 442b, 442c, 442d and the plurality of outer channels 443a, 443b, 443c, 443d and thus the inner longitudinal passages 458a, 458b, 458c, 458d and the outer longitudinal passages 459a, 459b, 459c, 459d are parallel to each other and are circumferentially staggered around the draft tube 440 such that the plurality of inner channels 442a, 442b, 442c, 442d are positioned circumferentially between the plurality of outer channels 443a, 443b, 443c, 443d, and thus the inner longitudinal Passageways 458a, 458b, 458c, 458d are positioned circumferentially between outer longitudinal passageways 459a, 459b, 459c, 459d. In other words, the plurality of inner channels 442a, 442b, 442c, 442d are radially offset from the plurality of outer channels 443a, 443b, 443c, 443d, and thus the inner longitudinal passages 458a, 458b, 458c, 458d are longitudinally offset from the outer The passages 459a, 459b, 459c, 459d are radially offset. Since the inner surface 444 of the draft tube 440 contacts the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30, the inner longitudinal passages 458a, 458b, 458c, 458d defined by the plurality of inner channels 442a, 442b, 442c, 442d are separated from each other (i.e., Fluid flowing through inner channel 442a is isolated from fluid flowing through inner channel 442b until the fluid exits into reservoir cavity 452). However, in alternative embodiments, the inner longitudinal passages 458a, 458b, 458c, 458d may be arranged in fluid communication with each other.

The valve outlet 152 of the electromechanical valve assembly 126 is disposed in fluid communication with each of the inner longitudinal passages 458a, 458b, 458c, 458d. When the electromechanical valve assembly 126 is in the open state, fluid flows along the flow direction F1 through the inner longitudinal passages 458a, 458b, 458c, 458d to the reservoir cavity 452, where the fluid then flows in the opposite direction through the outer longitudinal passages 459a, 459b, 459c. , 459d flows along the flow direction F2. Alternatively, shock absorber 20 may include one electromechanical valve assembly for each of inner longitudinal passages 458a, 458b, 458c, 458d.

Advantageously, the individual inner longitudinal passages 458a, 458b, 458c, 458d defined by the plurality of inner channels 442a, 442b, 442c, 442d direct the flow from the valve outlet 152 of the electromechanical valve assembly 126 with minimal foaming (i.e., bubbling). Fluid is delivered to reservoir cavity 452 . The design of the present invention minimizes the volume of the draft tube channel 456 . Additionally, the design of the present invention maximizes the volume of the reservoir cavity 452 due to the increased volume of the outer channels 443a, 443b, 443c, 443d.

Fluid from valve outlet 152 flows along inner longitudinal passages 458a , 458b , 458c , 458d and to reservoir chamber 452 . The nozzle tube 440 may optionally include a locking feature 464 to ensure proper positioning (i.e., alignment) of the nozzle tube 440, wherein the inner longitudinal passages 458a, 458b, 458c, 458d communicate with one or more of the valves of the electromechanical valve assembly 126. The outlets 152 are aligned circumferentially. By way of example and not limitation, locking feature 464 may be in the form of a notch in upper end 454 of draft tube 440 that engages a tab in rod guide assembly 50 . In the example shown, one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are located in the stem guide assembly 50 . However, other configurations are possible. For example, one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 may be mounted externally on reserve tube 36 . Even though the one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are external to the reservoir tube 36 , the internal passages of the one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are still disposed in fluid communication with the flow guide channel 456 and the reservoir chamber 452 . Accordingly, one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are operable to control fluid flow from flow diversion channel 456 to reservoir cavity 452 . In another embodiment, the outer surface 446 of the draft tube 440 abuts against the inner cylindrical surface of the reserve tube 36, and the outer longitudinal passages 459a, 459b, 459c, 459d are configured to communicate with one or more valves of the electromechanical valve assembly 126. Outlet 152 is in fluid communication. Thus, in this embodiment, the flow guide channel 456 is positioned radially between the flow guide tube 440 and the reserve tube 36 . Inner longitudinal passages 458 a , 458 b , 458 c , 458 d open to and form part of reservoir chamber 452 , but are closed to valve outlet 152 of one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 . In this embodiment, delivery channels (ie, holes) extending through the draft tube 440 may be provided to communicate fluid from the valve outlet 152 to the outer longitudinal passages 459a, 459b, 459c, 459d.

In the example shown in FIGS. 15-17 , the plurality of inner channels 442a, 442b, 442c, 442d and the plurality of outer channels 443a, 443b, 443c, 443d have a rectangular cross-sectional shape; however, it should be understood that other shapes are possible. Additionally, it should be appreciated that the number of inner and outer channels, and thus the number of inner and outer longitudinal passages, may vary from the four inner channels 442a, 442b, 442c, 442d, four inner channels 442a, 442b, 442d, four shown in the illustrated embodiment. Four inner longitudinal passages 458a, 458b, 458c, 458d, four outer channels 443a, 443b, 443c, 443d and four outer longitudinal passages 459a, 459b, 459c, 459d. In an alternative embodiment, inner channels 442a, 442b, 442c, 442d, inner longitudinal passages 458a, 458b, 458c, 458d, outer channels 443a, 443b, 443c, 443d and outer longitudinal passages 459a, 459b, 459c, 459d Can be configured to extend along only a portion of the longitudinal length of the draft tube 440 . It should also be appreciated that alternative embodiments are possible in which the outer surface 446 of the draft tube 440 contacts the inner cylindrical surface of the reserve tube 36 and the inner surface 444 of the draft tube 440 is diameter from the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30. spaced outwardly. According to this embodiment, the reservoir cavity 452 is positioned radially between the inner surface 344 of the draft tube 340 and the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30, and the inner longitudinal passages 458a, 458b, 458c, 458d form the reservoir cavity 452 a part of. Meanwhile, the draft tube channel 356 is positioned radially between the outer surface 346 of the draft tube 340 and the inner cylindrical surface of the reserve tube 36 and is formed by the outer longitudinal passages 459a, 459b, 459c, 459d.

FIGS. 18-20 illustrate another alternative embodiment in which the shock absorber 20 includes a flow guide tube 540 having a plurality of internal channels 542 . A plurality of inner channels 542 extend longitudinally along the inner surface 544 of the draft tube 540 from an upper end 554 of the draft tube 540 to a lower end 555 of the draft tube 540 . The draft tube 540 extends annularly around the pressure line 30 and is arranged radially between the pressure line 30 and the supply line 36 . The inner surface 544 of the draft tube 540 contacts the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30 and thus supports the draft tube 540 concentrically on the pressure tube 30 . The plurality of inner channels 542 collectively define a flow guide channel 556 in the form of four inner longitudinal passages 558 . The inner longitudinal passage 558 extends longitudinally along the draft tube 540 from the upper end 554 of the draft tube 540 to the lower end 555 of the draft tube 540 and is between the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30 and the inner surface 544 of the draft tube 540. Between and radially extend in the inner channel 542 .

The outer surface 546 of the draft tube 540 is cylindrical and spaced radially inwardly from the inner cylindrical surface of the reserve tube 36 . A reservoir cavity 552 exists between the outer surface 546 of the draft tube 540 and the inner cylindrical surface of the reservoir tube 36 . A liquid fluid such as oil is contained in the lower region of the reservoir chamber 552 and pressurized gas is contained in the upper portion of the reservoir chamber 552 .

The plurality of inner channels 542 and thus the inner longitudinal passages 558 run parallel to one another and are spaced circumferentially around the draft tube 540 . Because the inner surface 544 of the draft tube 540 contacts the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30, the inner longitudinal passages 558 defined by the plurality of inner channels 542 are separated from each other (ie, the fluid flowing through the inner channels 542a is different from the fluid flowing through the inner channels 542a). channel 542b is fluid isolated until fluid exits into reservoir chamber 552). However, in alternative embodiments, the inner longitudinal passages 558 may be arranged in fluid communication with each other.

The valve outlets 152 of the electromechanical valve assembly 126 are disposed in fluid communication with each of the inner longitudinal passages 558 . When the electromechanical valve assembly 126 is in the open state, fluid flows along the flow direction F1 through the inner longitudinal passage 558 to the reservoir cavity 552, where the fluid then flows in the opposite direction in the reservoir cavity 552 along the flow direction F2. Alternatively, shock absorber 20 may include one electromechanical valve assembly for each of inner longitudinal passages 558 . Advantageously, the single inner longitudinal passage 558 defined by the plurality of inner channels 542 delivers fluid from the valve outlet 152 of the electromechanical valve assembly 126 to the reservoir cavity 552 with minimal foaming (ie, bubbling).

Fluid from valve outlet 152 flows along inner longitudinal passage 558 and to reservoir cavity 552 . The nozzle tube 540 may optionally include a locking feature 564 that ensures proper positioning (i.e., alignment) of the nozzle tube 540 with the inner longitudinal passageway 558 circumferentially opposed to the valve outlet 152 of the one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126. allow. By way of example and not limitation, locking feature 564 may be in the form of a notch in upper end 554 of draft tube 540 that engages a tab in rod guide assembly 50 . In the example shown, one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are located in the stem guide assembly 50 . However, other configurations are possible. For example, one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 may be mounted externally on reserve tube 36 . Even though the one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are external to the reservoir tube 36 , the internal passages of the one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are still disposed in fluid communication with the flow guide channel 556 and the reservoir chamber 552 . Accordingly, one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are operable to control fluid flow from flow diversion channel 556 to reservoir chamber 552 . In another embodiment, the outer surface 546 of the draft tube 540 abuts against the inner cylindrical surface of the reserve tube 36 and the longitudinal passage 558 is disposed along the outer surface 546 of the draft tube 540 . Thus, in this embodiment, the flow guide channel 556 is positioned radially between the flow guide tube 540 and the reserve tube 36 . Inner surface 544 of draft tube 540 is spaced radially outward of the outer cylindrical surface of pressure tube 30 such that a portion of reservoir cavity 452 is positioned radially between pressure tube 30 and draft tube 540 . In this embodiment, a delivery channel (ie, an aperture) extending through the draft tube 540 may be provided to deliver fluid from the valve outlet 152 to the longitudinal passage 558 on the outer surface 546 of the draft tube 540 .

In the example shown in FIGS. 18-20 , the plurality of inner channels 542 have a rectangular cross-sectional shape; however, it should be appreciated that other shapes are possible. Additionally, it should be appreciated that the number of inner channels, and thus the number of inner longitudinal passages, may vary from the eight inner channels 542 and eight inner longitudinal passages 558 shown in the illustrated embodiment. In alternative embodiments, inner channel 542 and thus inner longitudinal passage 558 may be configured to extend along only a portion of the longitudinal length of draft tube 540 .

FIGS. 21-23 illustrate another alternative embodiment in which the shock absorber 20 includes a nozzle 640 having a plurality of corrugations 642 . A plurality of corrugations 642 extend longitudinally along the nozzle tube 640 from an upper end 654 of the nozzle tube 640 to a lower end 655 of the nozzle tube 640 . The flow guide tube 640 extends annularly around the pressure line 30 and is arranged radially between the pressure line 30 and the supply line 36 . The plurality of corrugations 642 has peaks 643 and grooves 645 . Peak 643 is radially outward from groove 645 and groove 645 is radially inward from peak 643 . The inner surface 644 of the draft tube 640 contacts the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30 at the grooves 645 of the corrugations 642 and thus supports the draft tube 640 concentrically on the pressure tube 30 . The plurality of corrugations 642 collectively define a nozzle channel 656 in the form of an inner longitudinal passage 658 . The inner longitudinal passage 658 extends longitudinally along the draft tube 640 from the upper end 654 of the draft tube 640 to the lower end 655 of the draft tube 640 and is between the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30 and the inner surface 644 of the draft tube 640. between the peaks 643 of the corrugations 642 and extend radially.

The plurality of corrugations 642 also defines an outer longitudinal passage 659 . Outer longitudinal passage 659 extends longitudinally along draft tube 640 from upper end 654 of draft tube 640 to lower end 655 of draft tube 640 . The outer surface 646 of the draft tube 640 is radially inwardly spaced from the inner cylindrical surface of the reserve tube 36 , even at the crests 643 of the corrugations 642 . However, in an alternative embodiment, the outer surface 646 of the draft tube 640 may contact the inner cylindrical surface of the reserve tube 36 at the peaks 643 of the corrugations 642 . A reservoir lumen 652 exists between the outer surface 646 of the draft tube 640 and the inner cylindrical surface of the reservoir tube 36 . Outer longitudinal passage 659 opens to and forms part of reservoir cavity 652 . In other words, the outer longitudinal passage 659 is open to the reservoir cavity 652 but is not in direct communication with (ie, closed to) the outlet valve 152 at the upper end 654 of the draft tube 640 . A liquid fluid such as oil is contained in the lower region of the reservoir chamber 652 and pressurized gas is contained in the upper portion of the reservoir chamber 652 .

Inner longitudinal passages 658 and outer longitudinal passages 659 run parallel to one another and are axially staggered about draft tube 640 such that inner longitudinal passages 658 are positioned circumferentially between outer longitudinal passages 659 . In other words, the crests 643 and grooves 645 of the corrugations 642 are radially offset from each other such that the inner longitudinal passage 658 is radially offset from the outer longitudinal passage 659 . Since the inner surface 644 of the draft tube 640 contacts the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30 at the grooves 645 of the corrugations 642, the inner longitudinal passages 658 defined by the plurality of corrugations 642 are separated from each other (i.e., flow through one inner longitudinal passage). 658 is isolated from the fluid flowing through the adjacent inner longitudinal passage 658 until the fluid exits into the reservoir cavity 652). However, in alternative embodiments, the inner longitudinal passages 658 may be arranged in fluid communication with each other.

The valve outlets 152 of the electromechanical valve assembly 126 are disposed in fluid communication with each of the inner longitudinal passages 658 . When the electromechanical valve assembly 126 is in the open state, fluid flows along the flow direction F1 through the inner longitudinal passage 658 to the reservoir chamber 652, where the fluid then flows in the opposite direction in the outer longitudinal passage 659 along the flow direction F2. Alternatively, shock absorber 20 may include one electromechanical valve assembly for each of inner longitudinal passages 658 .

Advantageously, the single inner longitudinal passage 658 defined by the plurality of corrugations 642 delivers fluid from the valve outlet 152 of the electromechanical valve assembly 126 to the reservoir cavity 652 with minimal foaming (ie, bubbling). The design of the present invention minimizes the volume of the draft tube channel 656 . Additionally, the design of the present invention maximizes the volume of the reservoir cavity 652 due to the increased volume of the outer longitudinal passage 659 .

Fluid from valve outlet 152 flows along inner longitudinal passage 658 and to reservoir cavity 652 . The guide tube 640 may optionally include a locking feature 664 to ensure proper positioning (i.e., alignment) of the guide tube 640 with the inner longitudinal passage 658 circumferentially opposed to the valve outlet 152 of the one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126. allow. By way of example and not limitation, locking feature 664 may be in the form of a notch in upper end 654 of nozzle 640 that engages a tab in rod guide assembly 50 . In the example shown, one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are located in the stem guide assembly 50 . However, other configurations are possible. For example, one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 may be mounted externally on reserve tube 36 . Even though the one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are external to the reservoir tube 36 , the internal passages of the one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are still disposed in fluid communication with the flow guide channel 656 and the reservoir cavity 652 . Accordingly, one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 are operable to control fluid flow from flow diversion channel 656 to reservoir cavity 652 . In another embodiment, the peaks 643 of the plurality of corrugations 642 abut against the inner cylindrical surface of the reserve tube 36 and the outer longitudinal passage 659 is disposed in fluid communication with the valve outlet 152 of the one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 . Thus, in this embodiment, the flow guide channel 656 is positioned radially between the flow guide tube 640 and the reserve tube 36 . The inner longitudinal passage 658 is open to and forms part of the reservoir cavity 652 , but is closed to the valve outlet 152 of the one or more electromechanical valve assemblies 126 . In this embodiment, delivery channels (ie, bores) extending through the draft tube 640 may be provided to communicate fluid from the valve outlet 152 to the outer longitudinal passage 659 .

In the example shown in FIGS. 21-23 , the plurality of corrugations 642 has a wave shape, and the plurality of inner longitudinal passages 658 and outer plurality of longitudinal passages 659 have a substantially triangular cross-sectional shape; however, it should be understood that other shapes are possible. Additionally, it should be appreciated that the number of corrugations, and thus the number of inner and outer longitudinal passages, may vary from that shown in the illustrated embodiment. In alternative embodiments, the plurality of corrugations 642 , and thus the inner and outer longitudinal passages 658 , 659 , may be configured to extend along only a portion of the longitudinal length of the draft tube 640 . It should also be appreciated that alternative embodiments are possible in which the outer surface 646 of the draft tube 640 contacts the inner cylindrical surface of the reserve tube 36 at the crest 643 of the corrugations 642, and that the inner surface 644 of the draft tube 640 may be at the peaks 643 of the corrugations 642. Grooves 645 of 642 contact or are spaced radially outwardly from the outer cylindrical surface of pressure tube 30 . According to this embodiment, the reservoir cavity 652 is positioned radially between the inner surface 644 of the draft tube 640 and the outer cylindrical surface of the pressure tube 30 , and the inner longitudinal passage 658 forms part of the reservoir cavity 652 . Also, a draft tube channel 656 is positioned radially between the outer surface 646 of the draft tube 640 and the inner cylindrical surface of the reserve tube 36 and is formed by the outer longitudinal passage 659 .

The foregoing descriptions of these embodiments have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment even not explicitly shown or described. It can also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims (20)

1. a kind of damper, comprising:

Pressure pipe, the pressure pipe form working chamber；

Piston component, the piston component are attached to piston rod and are slidably disposed in the pressure pipe, which should Working chamber is divided into working chamber and lower working chamber, which includes the first valve module, and first valve module control is flowed through The fluid in the first fluid channel that working chamber on this and the lower working chamber are connected；

Reserve tube, the reserve tube are arranged around the pressure pipe；

Diversion pipe, the diversion pipe position from the pressure pipe radial direction outer and are at least partially defined in the pressure pipe and lead with this Diversion pipe conduit between flow tube；

Storage apptss chamber, the storage apptss chamber are located between the diversion pipe and the reserve tube；

Second valve, second valve be located in the pressure pipe with for control on this one of working chamber and the lower working chamber with Fluid flowing between the storage apptss chamber；

Bar guiding piece, the bar guiding piece support the piston rod and are attached to one end of the pressure pipe；

Second fluid channel, the second fluid channel are separated with the first fluid channel, second fluid channel work from this One of chamber and the lower working chamber extend to the diversion pipe conduit；And

Electromechanical valve, the electromechanical valve are located in the interior fluid flowing with for controlling across the second channel of the bar guiding piece, wherein The diversion pipe conduit fluidly connects the electromechanical valve and storage apptss.

2. damper as described in claim 1, wherein the diversion pipe includes top and bottom, and upper end sealing is attached to this At least one of pressure pipe and the reserve tube, each of the lower end and the pressure pipe and the reserve tube are spaced apart.

3. damper as described in claim 1, wherein the diversion pipe includes multiple notches, and multiple notch is from the diversion pipe Radially inwardly extend towards the pressure pipe, multiple notch is circumferentially spaced and is linearly aligned along longitudinal axis, makes It obtains multiple notch and limits multiple longitudinal passages between the diversion pipe and the pressure pipe, multiple longitudinal passage is arranged to and is somebody's turn to do Electromechanical valve and the storage apptss chamber are in fluid communication.

4. damper as described in claim 1, wherein the diversion pipe includes at least one ripple, at least one ripple edge The diversion pipe be longitudinally extended so that multiple ripple limit between the diversion pipe and the pressure pipe at least one is longitudinally logical Road, at least one longitudinal passage are arranged to be in fluid communication with the electromechanical valve and the storage apptss chamber.

5. damper as described in claim 1, wherein the diversion pipe includes inner surface and multiple inside grooves towards the pressure pipe Road, multiple interior conduit are longitudinally extended along the inner surface of the diversion pipe, so that multiple interior conduit limits the diversion pipe Multiple longitudinal passages between the pressure pipe, multiple longitudinal passage are arranged to connect with the electromechanical valve and the storage apptss chamber fluid It is logical.

6. a kind of damper, comprising:

Pressure pipe, the pressure pipe form working chamber；

Reserve tube, the reserve tube it is concentric with the pressure pipe and from the pressure pipe radially outside；

Diversion pipe, the diversion pipe are positioned from the pressure pipe radial direction outer；

Storage apptss chamber, the storage apptss chamber are formed between the reserve tube and the diversion pipe；

Piston, the piston are attached to piston rod and are slidably disposed in the pressure pipe；

Bar guiding piece, the bar guiding piece are attached to the pressure pipe and support the piston rod；And

One or more electromechanical valves, wherein the diversion pipe and the pressure pipe are formed in the one or more electromechanical valve and the storage apptss Fluid channel between chamber.

7. damper as claimed in claim 6, wherein the diversion pipe includes top and bottom, and upper end sealing is attached to this At least one of pressure pipe and the reserve tube, each of the lower end and the pressure pipe and the reserve tube are spaced apart.

8. damper as claimed in claim 7, wherein match via elastomeric elements, adhesive, interference the upper end of the diversion pipe Close or welded seal be attached at least one of the pressure pipe and the reserve tube.

9. damper as claimed in claim 7, wherein the diversion pipe includes extending to the diversion pipe from the upper end of the diversion pipe Lower end uninterrupted wall.

10. damper as claimed in claim 7, further comprises:

Multiple longitudinal passages between the diversion pipe and the pressure pipe are set, and multiple longitudinal passage is from the upper end of the diversion pipe The lower end of the diversion pipe is extended longitudinally into, at least one of multiple longitudinal passage is arranged to and these electromechanical valves and the storage Standby device chamber is in fluid communication.

11. damper as claimed in claim 10, wherein the diversion pipe includes multiple notches, and multiple notch is from the water conservancy diversion Pipe radially inwardly extends towards the pressure pipe, and multiple notch is circumferentially spaced and along the upper end in the diversion pipe under The longitudinal axis extended between end is linearly aligned, so that multiple longitudinal passage is limited by multiple notch.

12. damper as claimed in claim 10, wherein the diversion pipe includes multiple ripples, and multiple ripple is led along this Flow tube is longitudinally extended between the top and bottom of the diversion pipe, so that multiple longitudinal passage is limited by multiple ripple.

13. damper as claimed in claim 10, wherein the diversion pipe includes inner surface towards the pressure pipe and multiple interior Conduit, multiple interior conduit are longitudinally extended between the top and bottom of the diversion pipe along the inner surface of the diversion pipe, make Multiple longitudinal passage is obtained to be limited by multiple interior conduit.

14. damper as claimed in claim 6, wherein the piston includes valve, which can operate to provide across the piston Fluid channel.

15. a kind of damper, comprising:

Pressure pipe, the pressure pipe limit working chamber；

Piston component, the piston component are attached to piston rod and are slidably disposed in the pressure pipe, which should Working chamber is divided into working chamber and lower working chamber；

Reserve tube, the reserve tube are arranged around the pressure pipe；

Diversion pipe, the diversion pipe be positioned radially between the pressure pipe and the reserve tube with by the pressure pipe and the reserve tube it Between volume be divided into diversion pipe conduit and storage apptss chamber, which has inner surface towards the pressure pipe and towards the deposit The outer surface of pipe；And

At least one valve, which is positioned to be in fluid communication with working chamber on this and water conservancy diversion lumen, for controlling this Fluid between a little upper working chambers and the water conservancy diversion lumen flows；And

Multiple longitudinal passages, multiple longitudinal passage are longitudinally extended along the diversion pipe, and multiple longitudinal passage is by the water conservancy diversion Pipe and at least one of the pressure pipe and the reserve tube limit, and at least one of the vertical passage is arranged to this at least One valve and the storage apptss chamber are in fluid communication.

16. damper as claimed in claim 15, wherein multiple longitudinal passage includes interior longitudinal passage, longitudinal direction in these Access is limited by the multiple ripples being longitudinally extended along the diversion pipe, these inner gateways are positioned radially within the pressure pipe and are somebody's turn to do Between the inner surface of diversion pipe.

17. damper as claimed in claim 16, wherein multiple longitudinal passage includes outer longitudinal passage, these are outer longitudinal Access is limited by multiple ripple, these outer longitudinal passages be positioned radially within the reserve tube and the diversion pipe outer surface it Between.

18. damper as claimed in claim 15, wherein multiple longitudinal passage includes interior longitudinal passage, longitudinal direction in these Access is limited by multiple interior conduits that the inner surface along the diversion pipe is longitudinally extended.

19. damper as claimed in claim 18, wherein multiple longitudinal passage includes outer longitudinal passage, these are outer longitudinal Access is limited by multiple outer conduits that the outer surface along the diversion pipe is longitudinally extended.

20. damper as claimed in claim 15, wherein multiple longitudinal passage includes interior longitudinal passage, longitudinal direction in these Access is limited by the inner surface from the diversion pipe towards multiple notches that the pressure pipe radially inwardly extends, multiple notch week It is spaced apart to ground and is linearly aligned along longitudinal axis.